Alongside companionship, there are a plethora of positive reasons why every kid should have a pet. A study reported by Psychology Today revealed that children who grow up with pets are more empathetic, generally healthier, less moody and showed fewer behavior and learning problems. It may be extra work on the parents to oversee the wellbeing of both their human and fur babies, but the benefits far outweigh the extra hassle.

Whether it be a traditional animal—dog, cat, rabbit—or an exotic type—snake, armadillo, caterpillar—kids who grow up with an animal friend are better off mentally, emotionally and physically. Plus, your little human/s will have a partner in crime to enjoy all the little, big and in-between life moments.

1. Play Hard, Work Hard

If this doesn’t warm your heart, there’s not much else in the world that will. It’s tough work being cute 100% of the time. Babies and puppies require 12-20 hours of sleep a day, which is why these two are enjoying a much deserved nap together.

2. Do It for the Photos

Raising a human baby while training a fur baby takes a lot of work. Be prepared for sleepless nights and endless amount of diapers and poop bags masked in a whole lotta love. Don’t forget to set up a photoshoot with your babies to document these precious moments (and rolls). After all, they’re only this cute for a little while.

8. Opt Outside

9. Partner in Crime

They’ll have a partner in crime to learn how to do life with and in return, your phone will be filled with hilarious and precious images that will end up being great conversation starters for those work functions you’d rather not go to.

12. Tear Wiper

When you’re upset, sometimes all you need is someone to be there for you as you ugly cry it out. A dog is perfect for that. There’s a reason why they are highly sought after therapy animals. According to The Washington Post, it’s scientifically proven that dogs can make you feel better and are great for your emotional well-being.

14. The Best Snuggle Buddy

15. Aussie Pets

As mentioned earlier, a pet doesn’t have to be a dog or cat. Having an armadillo as a pet will still teach your kid all the necessary attributes to living a good life: responsibility, empathy, confidence and socialization.

17. Carpool Buddy

18. Play Date

Why bother setting up other play dates when your kid already has the best playmate around? If it wasn’t for this patient dog, it would be one of the parents sitting in this very pink set-up. This fido deserves all the treats!

29. The Baby and the Hound

30. Stronger Together

This baby will be less likely to develop allergies and more likely to have a stronger immune system. Dogs bring a wealth of bacteria into the home (finish reading the sentence before you freak out) and it introduces a diverse range of bacteria to the body at an early age, which strengthens one’s immune system in the long run. “Without exposure to a diversity of bacteria, the body’s immune system may miss out on a step in learning to differentiate between dangerous and harmless bacteria,” reported WebMD.